The Department of Homeland Security is making moves to adapt to the changing homeland security landscape. Agencies across the department have updated their strategic plans to reflect the demands of this technology-driven era of competition. While agency-specific strategies may differ slightly, an emphasis on partnerships has emerged as a common thread across DHS.
Get an in-depth look at DHS’ efforts to build partnerships with industry at the Potomac Officers Club’s 2024 Homeland Security Summit on Nov. 13, where leaders from across the public and private sectors will come together to evaluate DHS’ top priorities and challenges as it charges into the future. Secure your spot at the 2024 Homeland Security Summit to unlock the opportunity to connect with these thought leaders.
One way DHS is forging partnerships with businesses is through contracts, which enable the department to team with industry to acquire the cutting-edge technologies needed to drive its mission forward. Keep reading to learn about three upcoming DHS contracts that could shape the future of the department.
Biometric Capture Devices
DHS uses biometrics — unique physical characteristics such as fingerprints — to verify the identity of individuals seeking to enter the U.S. and prevent unlawful entry. Through an upcoming contract with a potential value of $100 million, the department hopes to purchase new biometric capture devices with these requirement modalities:
- Face
- Fingerprints
- Iris
- Emerging modalities
The devices should be able to meet a wide range of operational requirements, such as mobile, stationary, standoff, physical contact, ruggedization and multi-modal. Other federal agencies — including the Departments of Defense, State and Justice and the FBI — will also be able to use these tools.
Open Architecture Solutions
The Transportation Security Administration is accepting comments from industry on next-generation open architecture offerings to inform future open architecture requirements. By gathering responses, TSA aims to:
- Gain an understanding of commercial open architecture offerings
- Assess the viability of future open architecture requirements
The RFI is focused on three main areas:
- Common and accessible data formats and interfaces
- System of systems implementation
- Subsystem and component development
Cybersecurity & Engineering Services
DHS headquarters and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency are looking to support the Cybersecurity Division’s Capacity Building Subdivision with cybersecurity, technical and engineering support services under a contract with a potential value of up to $50 million. Contract responsibilities will include:
- Providing subject matter expertise
- Tackling emerging cybersecurity challenges
To address evolving cybersecurity needs, the selected company is expected to be able to adapt to changes as they occur.
These are just three of numerous upcoming DHS contracts. For a closer look at the current homeland security contracting landscape, check out this informational packet put together by the Potomac Officers Club team and join the conversation at the 2024 Homeland Security Summit.
